A focus on reconciliation: Supporting super in Indigenous communities - Scott's experience

This week is National Reconciliation Week. At Aware Super, reconciliation is embedded in the work we do through our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), and one way we’re putting this commitment into action is by getting out into community - listening, learning, and improving how we support First Nations members.

Recently, Scott Davis , WA State Manager, and Danika Johnson , Relationship Manager, took part in an initiative to better understand the unique challenges Indigenous Australians face when accessing and managing their super. Alongside representatives from GESB and AustralianSuper, Scott joined the WA Department of Justice ’s Aboriginal Justice Open Days, visiting remote communities across the state.

Here, he shares his reflections on the trip and why this work matters.

Bringing super services to where they're needed most

“Through the Aboriginal Justice Open Days, we travelled to Newman, Laverton, Cosmo Newberry, Leonora, and Jigalong, a place made famous by the story of Rabbit Proof Fence, says Scott.

“The purpose was to provide essential financial and government services yo communities that face real barriers to access, from transport and legal support to ID documentation and, importantly, superannuation.

“The trip wasn’t without its challenges – navigating outback roads, bushfires - and curious emus! The community welcomed and the opportunity to connect and it was incredibly worthwhile.”

"The community welcomed and the opportunity to connect and it was incredibly worthwhile."

The super system isn’t currently built for everyone – but small actions make a big difference

Scott explained how many First Nations people in remote communities struggle with issues like:

• Lost super accounts
• Incorrect personal details
• Lack of ID
• Inappropriate insurance fees

“Being on the ground meant we could help people, then and there. Some of the moments that really stuck with me included:”

• Reuniting one member with over $145,000 in lost super
• Helping consolidate four separate accounts, some with incorrect details
• Ensuring one young woman’s three employers were contributing to the same fund
• Identifying $50,000 paid in insurance premiums that may not have been appropriate

“These are not small wins - these are life-changing moments,” Scott said.

"These are not small wins - these are life-changing moments."

The path forward: listening, learning, acting

“What’s clear is that the super system wasn’t built with remote and Indigenous communities in mind. But by working together across funds, services, and agencies, we can help change that.”

“At Aware, we want to continue to learn and better understand the specific barriers First Nations members face. For me, reconciliation is about respect and action - listening more than speaking, continuing to learn, and challenging the systems we take for granted.”

This visit was one step - there’s still a long way to go. Through Aware Super’s RAP, and in partnership with others, we’re committed to helping close the gap in access to financial security for First Nations Australians.

"By working together across funds, services, and agencies, we can help drive change.”

Read more: Aware Super's focus on ESG and corporate sustainability

#NationalReconciliationWeek #RAP